Essential Access Companion Scheme

Why does the scheme exist?

The Essential
Access Companion Scheme exists to enable all patrons to equally participate in
The Sands Centre's events.The purpose of the scheme is to ensure the
safety and enjoyment of the Scheme Member at our live events.

Who is the Essential Access Companion Scheme for?

The scheme is
offered to those who require a companion to assist them in accessing the
facilities at The Sands Centre. (Hereafter called the Scheme Member.) Most, but
not all, Scheme Members have a disability as defined by The Equality Act 2010*.

Who is the Essential Companion Access Scheme not for?

This scheme is
not open to, or intended for, those who simply require a companion to assist
with transportation to and from the venues, or to keep them company. The scheme
is not offered to anyone who can cope independently in a public venue.

What is the role of the Essential Companion?

The Essential
Companion's primary role is to assist the Scheme Member with mobility or
guidance, to enable them to use and enjoy the services at The Sands Centre. The
Essential Companion is expected to attend to the needs of the Scheme Member at
all times whilst on the premises.

How should an Essential Companion prepare?

The Essential
Companion should familiarise themselves with the layout of the centre and the
location of services. They should liaise with Sands' staff if special
assistance is required, and take instructions should the need to evacuate the
building arise.

What does the Essential Companion Access scheme offer?

The scheme
offers members the opportunity to obtain one ticket, free of charge, for the
Essential Companion.

How do I join?

The applicant, or their appointed representative, must complete
and sign the Essential Companion application form (available here or
from the Box Office). Please return completed forms to the Box Office. NB The
contact details on the form should be those of the Scheme Member, not of the
Essential Companion.

What do I need to disclose?

The application form asks several multiple choice questions
along with sections to provide more details. Please provide as much detail as
possible and answer honestly. We use this information to determine your
eligibility for membership to the scheme, and it helps us better prepare to
cater for your needs. All information disclosed will be used solely for the
purposes set out in this document.

Important Policy for Wheelchair Users

It is accepted
that a wheelchair may be used to assist your access to and around the venue and
we accept that it may be preferred for you to transfer to a theatre seat.
However if you are transferring to a theatre seat, you will need to be
independently capable of leaving the venue in the event of an evacuation,
without access to your wheelchair.

If you
cannot fulfil this, in line with health & safety, risk assessments and
following advice from the Fire Safety Officer, we have to insist that you
remain in your wheelchair. For wheelchair positions please reference the
seating plan in our current What's On, or on our website thesandscentre.co.uk

If you
require assistance in completing the application form or would like more
information, please contact the Box Office on 01228 633766